15 top MBA programmes, 1500 students, 3 days of sports, cultural and networking events in Paris, can only mean one thing – the MBA tournament was back.
MBAT is the MBA student’s version of the Olympic games, where business schools compete against each other in a series of games from battle of the bands to cross country. The three day event in Paris is a fantastic networking opportunity for students to meet other like-minded students across a range of business schools in Europe. It is also a great opportunity for the class to grow tighter bonds within their class.
Satyam Sancheti who is VP Wellbeing for our Full-time MBA Class of 2023 summarised his experience of the event:
Our Full-time MBA class were very excited as we arrived at HEC Business School, the ambience and energy was electrifying. The 31st MBAT was being held in-person after 3 years with more than 30 sporting and cultural competitions. The preparation and participation for the activities, not only gave us much needed break from the intense academics of the MBA, but also brought the entire cohort together, advocating teamwork, encouraging inclusivity and solidifying relationships.
The MBA Tournament gave our class a great opportunity to network with MBA students at top European business schools. After the registration and a quick breakfast, the games began. You could see the purple AMBS jersey shining in every corner of the tournament, as we participated in almost all the activities.
It was a proud moment for us when we won a bronze in the Cross Country (Female). The first evening was the opening ceremony. Representatives from each school marched their way to the main stage. AMBS stood out as we had our super cute bee mascot marching and cheering everyone on. This was followed by a 90’s dance competition, where AMBS also performed on groovy Bollywood beats. The day ended with a huge party, which was a great way to end day 1 of MBAT.
Day 2 we won a silver for poker (Rishab Bhagat), bronze in swimming (breast stroke and medley - women) and secured third place in the Paris Treasure Hunt. The 2nd night was exciting for us all as we had a battle of bands. 6 rock stars from our class gave a breath-taking performance as we all cheered them on. The final day of MBAT, the entire cohort got together to cheer two power houses from the Class of 2023 – Gissell Bernal and Heather Statham as they were competing in the finals of Cross Fit. Both secured a silver medal and made AMBS proud. The loudest cheers coming from AMBS as we all screamed – “Manchester Manchester Manchester” around the entire cross fit complex. When the final night of MBAT drew in, we all dressed in our best for the Gatsby Gala night as we networked and danced till the early hours of the morning.
We enjoyed every minute of our time in Paris. The MBA Tournament was 3 days of spirit, teamwork, recreation, friendship and frolic. The preparation for MBAT also gave the entire cohort the chance to come together as a family and show spirit, leadership and excellence. The MBAT management committee (myself, Papada Sirisukhodon (President) and Ritika Mehra (VP Finance and Communication) would like to thank the MBA programme team for their support with MBAT. I would encourage everyone to continue to practice sports and be physically active, for good health and a relaxed mind is essential to get through the MBA.